Door County, Wisconsin Workshop- Women’s Photography Workshop
Into Door County We Go
August 1-5th, 2027
Join us for a one-of-a-kind summer photography adventure in Door County and Washington Island, where breathtaking sunsets give way to some of the Midwest’s darkest skies.
Designed with astrophotography as the primary focus, this workshop includes sunset photography every evening, three to four nights photographing the Milky Way, and just one sunrise session. Instead of rushing from sunrise to sunset each day, you’ll have time to rest, explore, and be ready to create your best work after dark.
We’ll photograph the Milky Way over Lake Michigan, create stunning night images at Cana Island Lighthouse, capture the stars above the lavender fields at Wilder Farms, and explore Door County’s rugged shoreline, scenic overlooks, and charming coastal communities. During the day, we’ll visit beautiful gardens, flower farms, lighthouses, and other iconic locations throughout the peninsula.
Our home base will be the cozy Wilder Inn, perfectly located for easy access to the peninsula’s best photography locations. You’ll enjoy a relaxed schedule, personalized instruction, and plenty of time to connect with a community of women who share your passion for photography.
Whether you’re capturing your first Milky Way, refining your night photography skills, or simply looking for an unforgettable summer adventure, this workshop offers the perfect blend of spectacular sunsets, incredible night skies, and the beauty of Door County.
Cost: $2,500
Lodging is not included in the workshop price. Students will reserve their own room at the Wilder Inn, where a block of rooms has been held for workshop participants.
CALLING ALL CREATIVE SOULS
Who is this for?
Who This Trip Is For
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Women photographers who crave creativity, connection, and time in nature
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Those who want to grow their photography skills in a supportive, women-only environment
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Photographers who love scenic landscapes, gardens, and small-town charm
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Anyone curious to try astro photography or refine long exposure techniques
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Creatives who find inspiration in coastal light, wildflowers, and the rhythm of the seasons
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Solo travelers looking for an easy, welcoming group experience
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Both hobbyists and professionals ready to recharge their passion for photography
LAVENDER UNDER THE STARS
One of the most magical moments of our Door County adventure takes place at Wilder Farms Lavender, where the air is filled with the calming scent of blooming lavender and the night sky stretches endlessly above. As the sun dips below the horizon, we’ll capture the last light glimmering over rows of violet blossoms before turning our lenses to the stars.
This shoot is a photographer’s dream — soft evening light, dreamy purples, and the chance to experiment with astro photography among the lavender rows. We’ll slow down, breathe in the fragrance, and let creativity lead the way as we capture both wide landscapes and intimate macro details.
It’s a peaceful, grounding experience — one that invites you to connect with nature, your camera, and yourself under a canopy of stars.
WHY DOOR COUNTY?
National Geographic describes Door County, Wisconsin as “one of those blindsiding destinations that feels surprisingly hidden in plain sight — the kind of place where stunned travelers wonder how they had never heard of it before.” Often called the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” this peninsula is known for its legendary Lake Michigan shorelines, vibrant small towns, and endless scenic charm.
It’s the perfect place for photographers and wanderers alike — a destination made for slow travel, spontaneous exploration, and chasing light across quiet beaches, winding backroads, and starlit skies.
📅 Itinerary Overview
This itinerary is subject to change based on weather, Milky Way conditions, and other factors.
Day 1 – Sunset, Lavender & Your First Milky Way
Arrive and check into our cozy home base at the Wilder Inn before meeting the group for introductions. We’ll kick off the workshop with a sunset session at the iconic Anderson Dock, where colorful graffiti, sailboats, and warm evening light create endless creative opportunities.
As darkness falls, we’ll head to a beautiful lavender farm for our first night under the stars. Surrounded by fragrant blooms, we’ll learn the fundamentals of astrophotography while capturing the Milky Way in one of Door County’s most unique settings. It’s the perfect introduction to the slower pace and astro-focused adventure ahead.
Day 2 – Coastal Cliffs, Gardens & Cave Point After Dark
Our only scheduled sunrise takes us to Cave Point County Park, where dramatic limestone cliffs meet the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan. After breakfast and a well-deserved break, we’ll spend the afternoon exploring Horseshoe Bay Farms, photographing the incredible Stickwork installation and beautiful flower gardens, with an optional stop at another local flower farm depending on what’s in bloom.
Later in the afternoon, we’ll gather for an editing session where we’ll review images, share techniques, and answer questions before heading to Sister Bay for a colorful sunset over the harbor and sailboats.
Once darkness falls, we’ll return to Cave Point County Park for an unforgettable night beneath the stars. With the Milky Way arching over the rugged shoreline, you’ll create dramatic coastal nightscapes while continuing to build your astrophotography skills.
Day 3 – Cana Island Lighthouse & Milky Way Magic
Enjoy a relaxed morning before touring the iconic Cana Island Lighthouse, one of Wisconsin’s most photographed landmarks. After a midday break, we’ll gather for another editing session to fine-tune your images and prepare for another evening in the field.
We’ll photograph sunset in either Ephraim or Sister Bay, depending on conditions, before making our way back to Cana Island Lighthouse after dark. With the historic lighthouse illuminated beneath the Milky Way, you’ll capture one of Door County’s most iconic night photography scenes and one of the highlights of the entire workshop.
Day 4 – Washington Island Adventure
Today we’ll board the ferry for a full-day adventure on Washington Island, one of Door County’s hidden gems. We’ll photograph the beautiful Stavkirke Church, the crystal-clear limestone shoreline of Schoolhouse Beach, the peaceful Sand Dunes Beach, the historic Farm Museum, and the whimsical Clock Forest, discovering unique photographic opportunities around every corner. We’ll also make a stop at the charming Ellison Flower Truck before enjoying an early traditional fish boil dinner.
After dinner, we’ll photograph one final Door County sunset before deciding our final night based on weather conditions. If skies are clear, we’ll head out for one last Milky Way session. If conditions look more favorable the following morning, we’ll save our final shoot for sunrise instead.
What is Included in the price?
✔️ Hands-on photography education and personalized instruction in the field
✔️ Editing sessions
✔️ Traditional Scandinavian Fish Boil (alternate options available)
✔️ Admission fees to all parks and photo locations
✔️ Ferry Fees
✔️ Special access to the lavender fields
✔️ Pre-trip planning support (packing lists, travel tips, location guides)
✔️ Access to a private group chat before and during the trip for connection and updates
✔️ Small group experience for maximum learning and connection
How do I get there?
Door County sits on Wisconsin’s beautiful peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan — about 4.5 hours from Minneapolis and 2.5 hours from Milwaukee.
The closest major airports are:
✈️ Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) – about 1.5 hours from Sturgeon Bay.
✈️ Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) – about 2.5 hours away.
✈️ Chicago O’Hare (ORD) – about 4.5 hours away.
Most attendees choose to fly into Green Bay or Milwaukee, then rent a car to enjoy the scenic drive up the peninsula. Once you arrive, we’ll gather at our cozy base, the Wilder Inn, and begin exploring the charming coastal towns and parks of Door County.
Lodging
Where We’ll Stay
Our home base for the workshop is the Wilder Inn, a cozy, boutique-style retreat tucked in the heart of Door County. Blending modern comfort with rustic charm, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a full day of photography and exploration.
Each room offers a warm, thoughtfully designed space — ideal for relaxing, editing, or connecting with new friends. The inn’s central location makes it easy to reach our sunrise and sunset destinations, while nearby cafés, galleries, and waterfront views add to the small-town magic of the area.
Please note that lodging is not included in the workshop price, but a block of rooms has been reserved exclusively for our group at a discounted rate. Once your registration is confirmed, you’ll receive a booking link and details to secure your room directly with the inn.
We are still waiting on room price quote but we expect rooms to be around $250 a night (with taxes).
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions.
What is not included?
Transportation to the workshop (students will carpool during the workshop), airfare, trip insurance, other meals and beverages.
Tip for guide.
What gear do I need?
Please view my recommended gear list here: https://intothewildwego.photography/photography-gear-reccomendations/
What is your cancellation policy?
You can view all my Terms and Conditions here: https://intothewildwego.photography/terms-and-conditions/
Can I bring a spouse/partner?
Spouses and partners are welcome to stay with you at the hotel; however, they will not be able to participate in our group outings, photography sessions, or planned meals.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
JEN FALKOFSKE
Jen is a Midwest-based photographer from Wisconsin and Minnesota with a love for capturing sunrises, sunsets, waterfalls, landscapes, and the night sky. Her work has been featured by KARE 11 News, the Minnesota Freshwater Society, and Our Wisconsin Magazine.
Jen is also a moderator for the Wisconsin Women Photographers group, where she organizes and leads photography meet-ups throughout the region. She taught waterfall workshops for Into the Wild We Go in Wisconsin in 2024 and Minnesota in 2025, and led the 2026 Into Door County We Go photography workshop. She also assisted Beth Mancuso on the 2023 Into Glacier We Go women’s photography workshop.
